Readings for March 1-2, Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
By Lyn Zahorik | For On Mission
I have found that for me, one of the most useful ways to do an examination of conscience is right here in today’s Gospel: “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?”
Digging a little deeper, we find the psychological phenomenon known as “projection,” where individuals attribute their own unwanted traits, feelings or behaviors to others. It’s like holding up a mirror to ourselves, but seeing someone else’s reflection instead.
There have been times when I was annoyed by what someone else was doing and God did a “gotcha” as he brought back a memory of me doing something quite similar just last Tuesday.
Criticizing others can sometimes be a way of deflecting attention from our own similar flaws. It can be easier to point out others’ mistakes rather than confront our own, and certainly a lot more comfortable.
However, we are all imperfect and have room for growth and reflection.
Being introspective and self-aware requires a good deal of prayer and a daily realigning of ourselves with the teachings of Jesus. Doing so challenges us to be more compassionate toward others and ourselves.
Of the many images we hold of Jesus, his being a man of humor is often overlooked.
I find Jesus very humorous in this Gospel passage. Think of the images he is creating: two blind people trying to lead one another while stumbling about. You can picture them accidentally tripping onto a dog, and the dog yelping and running off. Those people listening might chuckle at the thought of reaching into brambles, thinking to find fruit, only to get scratches and ripped clothing.
Perhaps Jesus received the most laughter from the crowd when he described a person trying to walk around with their vision blocked, a giant beam across their eyes.
It is interesting to note the size discrepancy Jesus used. We have a beam blocking our vision, but those whom we criticize around us have only tiny splinters in theirs.
Once Jesus had moved the crowd beyond the absurdity of that image, he helped them realize how the beam symbolizes a major fault or significant issue within oneself. We should first address and correct our own significant issues before we start judging or criticizing others for their smaller problems.
Jesus makes it very clear that we can dress ourselves up all we want on the outside, we can display our desired social status, our knowledge, even our perceived holiness. If a genuine relationship with Jesus is not our driving force, we might be a very convincing hypocrite — but we are a hypocrite nonetheless.
Perhaps we need to adopt a personal beatitude for our examinations of conscience: “Blessed are the authentic …”
When our actions and lifestyle align with those of Jesus, we experience greater fulfillment and satisfaction. Life becomes more meaningful and enjoyable, and the need to cover up our own sin and insecurities by calling attention to those of others no longer serves any purpose.
Zahorik is director for spiritual engagement at St. Mary Parish, Omro, and St. Mary Parish, Winneconne.
The readings for Sunday, March 2, can be found at Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time | USCCB.